Police hunting for missing teen Gaia Pope find clothing

Police hunting for missing 19-year-old Gaia Pope say they have found items of women's clothing in a field near Swanage in Dorset.

A cordon is in place following the discovery, which was made just before 10.30am on Thursday by a member of the public.

The owner of the clothes has not been identified, but detectives involved in the search for the teenager have informed her family of the find.

Senior investigating officer Neil Devoto said: "Following the discovery of these items of clothing, a full and thorough search will now take place in the field and surrounding area. We have seized the clothing and investigations will now be carried out to identify who they belong to.

"We have updated Gaia's family, who continue to be supported by specially trained officers. Our thoughts remain with them at this very difficult time."

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Gaia, from Langton Matravers, was staying at an address in Swanage when she disappeared last Tuesday afternoon. She was wearing grey and white woven leggings, white trainers and a red checked shirt with white buttons.

Searches of the land and coastline in the area, by air, land, and sea, have been ongoing since she disappeared. Two addresses were searched on Monday and three vehicles have been seized.

Police arrested a 19-year-old man and a 71-year-old woman on suspicion of murder. They have been released under investigation.

Mr Devoto said: "We are doing everything possible to try and locate Gaia.

"I would like to renew my appeal to anyone who has information about where Gaia is or what has happened to her to please contact Dorset Police."

:: Anyone with information should call Dorset Police on 101, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.